Fischer and Massa both enjoyed celebrated careers at UT Arlington. Fischer is a former Southland Conference co-medalist and two-time first-team performer, and a part of the 2011 SLC champions as a senior. Massa also picked up All-SLC first-team honors twice, and was named All-Region in 2009.

Fischer and Massa are just the second and third former UTA golfers to qualify for a PGA Tour event. Zack Reeves was the first, taking part in the True South Classic in 2012.

UT Arlington golf coach Jay Rees will be watching the progress of Fischer and Massa closely this week.

"They're two of the best golfers we've ever had," Rees said. "Both are doing great as they turn pro. They're trying to make it through the grind of qualifying and Q-School. I'm very proud of both of them.

"They're working hard to get better. I'm hoping to see them both make the cut and on the leaderboard this weekend."

The Byron Nelson opens Thursday at the PC Four Seasons Resort Las Colinas in Irving.

"I just wish Coach Rees could be around but he'll be following around Paul McConnell this week," said Fischer, referring to McConnell's berth in the NCAA Regionals. "I just went to register and got a brand new Cadillac to drive for the week. Every time I make a PGA Tour event I want to get in another one."

In addition to Fischer and Massa, four other former UT Arlington golfers competed in Monday's Nelson qualifier: Reeves, Wes Worster, Hunter Brown and Cameron Hollek. Brown and Hollek recently completed their senior seasons.